Testimonials
Leo O’Grady
“I have known Mark Jones for a period of 10 years. During these 10 years Mark has trained a number of horses for me. I will not use the term ‘broken them in’ because Mark is not that sort of person nor is it the way he operates. Breaking in has a negative connotation to it and infers breaking the horses spirit. On the contrary, Mark has a very gentle but firm approach with all horses. Mark is also an excellent farrier and has worked with many troublesome horses. I do not easily put pen to paper for references. However in this case I can guarantee that if you utilize Mark's services you will be getting the very best there is.”
Anna Bodeit and Tosca
“My friends and I have used Mark Jones farrier service for over 5 years now, and we have found his skills, knowledge and horsemanship to be of a very high quality. Between us, we have five horses and we are faced with a range of hoof problems and behavioral problems. Mark has been able to help us eradicate and manage all these problems and more.
Mark’s farrier skills are excellent. Mark has a holistic approach to his work. He knows that a well behaved horse is and easy horse to show and he will ask the horse to behave. He never strikes horses with his tools. Instead he will use good methods to reprimand the horses and get them to cooperate with him.
I also chose to send my two and a half year old thoroughbred/Clydesdale cross filly, ‘Tosca’ to Mark. During the initial training Mark was very patient in establishing the correct foundations. He didn’t progress to the next step until he felt that the horse was ready. This kept Tosca very willing and interested in her training. Thanks to these solid foundations, Tosca was unfazed with the saddle and rider. Quite early on I was able to participate in these sessions, and we were able to correct my weaknesses in dealing with a young horse so that by the time Tosca went home, she would work as well for me, as she did for Mark.
Tosca was always well fed and cared for. Mark knew exactly how much to ask of her and when to stop. Throughout her time with Mark, I was confident that Tosca was in good hands. I would recommend Mark as a horse trainer to anyone, irrespective of discipline. Or level of riding.”
Jess Welch
I have recently commenced instruction with Mark Jones and from the first lesson, there has been immense improvement in my riding ability and my horse’s movement. Mark is focused on achieving the best quality work from the horse and rider – improving rider neatness, ring craft and accuracy which are all essential in any discipline. Not only is Mark a valuable instructor, but also a great farrier who has maintained soundness in my problematic horse.
I am looking forward to many more lessons with Mark to improve and perfect Wally and I as a combination.
Jamie Setches, Equine Manipulative Therapist
“I have known Mark Jones both professionally and as a friend for many years. During that time I have found Mark to be hardworking and honest. The horses that I have seen that he has re-educated go quietly and willingly without signs of intimidation. I feel I can recommend Mark to honestly and conscientiously care for a client’s horse."
Paula Leslie and Spike
“Fellow horse enthusiasts save money and time by doing it right the first time around. I sent my horse Spike elsewhere first and paid dearly, ending up with a frightened timid hard to manage horse that I was told to give a bullet. After a few weeks of TLC and recovery he was sent to Mark, where he was treated with care and looked after like part of the family. Anything that needed doing was attended to (rugs, feeds, etc.).
I was able to check in on Spike and see how he was being trained, getting involved and learning much myself. He returned home when he was ready and my happy confident quiet horse was back with no nasty bad habits and ready for me to move on with him. Even when rides are a few weeks apart he is great.
I would highly recommend Mark, having seen the approach he uses and with the great horse that has returned to me, I would not hesitate sending anyone to him.”
Wendy
The day we met Mark Jones, changed our lives so much. Not only is he a lifetime friend, he is a teacher with such talent and good will; he is a man that will always succeed.
No words can express the time, the patience and the desire to teach that you displayed. You brought my daughter out from the clouds. You gave her confidence and self – esteem and a reason to smile. You’re a man of truth, honor and sheer determination to win. My daughter has grown from weaknesses to sheer strength. Your love of your horses and you’re gift to teach put you on a pedestal so many will never reach.You are a gifted man.
You are sheer proof, that if you believe in someone the way my daughter believes in you, we all become rewarded. By the smile on her face and the joy in our eyes. We will never be able to thank you enough. For the gift you have shared with our daughter and the way you earned her complete trust. Your way with horses brings so many rewards. Not only for you but also your students you teach. To be so gifted and yet so true makes us all realize, we are privileged to have met you and to have been able to learn with you.
Dedicated to a Brilliant Horseman
Mark Jones
Phillip and Chris Lonergan
We have used Mark for the shoeing of our horses, which we have found him to be gentle in his approach to his task. Especially as I have used other farriers on my horse and found they were harsh in their treatment. I don’t like a farrier that hits my horse in the stomach with their rasp. Mark has never done that to my horse. She is now every good with getting shod, all thanks to Mark's patience.
Mark has also done some training with my horse, which I have found him to be gentle and kind in his training methods. I have seen Mark work other people’s horses and the great results he has had with their horses. The enjoyment they now have from riding their horses safely is great.
I would recommend Mark to anyone who wants a well trained safe horse. For trail riding or for a show ring, you would not be disappointed with the finished results. Even his riding lessons would help anyone who has trouble controlling their horses.My wife has had some riding lessons from Mark, which has given her far more confidence in the handling and riding of her horse. She feels as though she can handle anything her horse does now.
Jo and Torah
Torah is my first dabble at breeding. As soon as she was born we just connected. Sounds like a cliche, but its true. I knew we were destined to be a team.
Our journey together is one that would take forever to explain, but to make it simple it feels as though Torah and I have been to the end of the earth and back.
When she was 2 she was introduced to a trainer who made lots and lots of promises. I was really excited about her learning more so that together we could go on to the next stage. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a complete disaster. My filly learnt nothing, I did my money and most of all I lost all trust in so called trainers.
Another 6 months past and I knew that there really wasn't alot more I could teach Torah, she also knew. She was ready to learn but I wasnt ready to let her go. In fact I was terrified at the prospect.
After searching on the internet for local trainers, I found Mark. His website spoke volumes. After making contact I have to admit I still wasn't entirely convinced, simply because of the bad experience I had with the previous trainer.
I explained my hesitation to Mark. I was really anxious, nervous and scared at the same time. Mark was very understanding and when he told me I could visit whenever I wanted and that he also works with the rider I was relieved.
I was also more than impressed by the way every stage of Torahs training was explained to me. If I could not be there I was always informed. My questions were always answered, no matter how silly they may have sounded.
It is now 3 weeks since Torah came home. We have ridden amongst some kangaroos and done flat work in the arena. We have also been on a few short trails. I cannot thank you enough Mark. The things you taught me about my horse are priceless. The gentle yet firm approach you take, you are a true horseman. And you were true to your word when you said you worked with horse and rider. I learnt just as much as Torah and not once did you tell me it was inconvenient to visit her.
Every time I saddle her up I think of Mark. She is patient, has fantastic brakes and more importantly she is an absolute pleasure to ride. We have lots to learn and I know that Mark will be there every step of the way. You have given me more confidence as a rider Mark and for that I thank you. I know I can call and pick your brain if I need to and I look forward to the follow up clinic, it will be our first outing together.
I am really proud of Torah and the way she has turned out. I know we will have a long and happy union. I am also very grateful to Mark, not only did he train my horse he also instilled some of my faith back into the human race.............